STEM: What lies underneath everyday technology?

Dr. Ata Khalid (Lecturer in Sensors and Sensor Systems, CDS) and Dr. Sandra Messenger (Knowledge Exchange Manager; Research and Innovation Office) went to Sharnbrook Primary School to give two classes, the opportunity to use screwdrivers, allen keys and pliers to have a look at and understand what lies inside everyday technology.

Sandra liaised with different Cranfield departments including Information Services and Facilities who were exceptionally helpful and invaluable in providing equipment that was destined for recycling and tools such as: speakers, keyboards, disc drives and printers.

In the STEM workshops we, as representatives of Cranfield University, have the opportunity to showcase the exciting work we do and explain the advances in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths that we are trying to achieve.  Exploring this through a fun practical class and giving the children the chance to explore and ask questions means that they learn without even realising it.  This is the ultimate way for children to learn and a chance for us to inspire future generations.

The schoolchildren were enthusiastic and had a fantastic time taking the equipment apart and asked Ata great questions that related to what was found on the inside of the items.  One of the children was overheard saying, “I wish this practical would never end!” 

Both Ata and Sandra had to curb some of the children’s enthusiasm by making sure they knew they weren’t to try what they done at home without permission from a grown up!